From my aunty eyes

The depth of two black eyes plunged deep within me is the first memory I have of my beloved nephew, barely two months old. I will never forget the strength of this little being newly arrived on earth. Having a nephew is an invaluable gift when the relationship with one's own brother is perfect and harmonious, just like with his wife. I remember the announcement of the pregnancy, the day of his birth, and the wave of instant love that overwhelmed me, even from a distance. I could feel that unique and unsettling feeling that only comes with the arrival of a child. Getting to know him, discovering him, spending time cherishing him, and supporting my brother and his wife as much as possible was my sole objective. I quickly sensed that Hélios was different, more intense, deeper, perhaps a bit more complex at times, especially in the daily life of his parents, but from my privileged position, it has always been just a small plus. Of course, there were sleepless nights, of course, there were relatively incomprehensible tantrums, of course, his reactions, even as a baby, were extreme, but like everything, there is a good side and a bad side. As an aunt, I have always felt that his good side far outweighed the bad. I have been constantly fascinated by the gaze he cast, when he chose to, on things and people, that unique look that penetrates so deeply. Spending time with him has nothing to do with what I had experienced before with other children, but it has always been precious because it is unique. It was enough not to compare, to be surprised, not to expect, but to simply give. In my view, that is love: to welcome his difference without judgment, to make it a strength, not to stigmatize, to be there as much as possible.

 I do not try to understand my nephew; I love him fully, I observe him, and everything he reflects back to me from his world, in which I can interfere when he decides, pleases me deeply. I can say today, without a shadow of a doubt, that the inner richness of this little being makes me a fulfilled aunt.

 Guided by wonderful parents, I am certain that his path will shine as brightly as his gaze.